Guides · STELLAIRE
Does your website have to be in French in Quebec?
Yes. If your business offers goods or services to consumers in Quebec, your website must be available in French. Here is what that means in practice.
The basic rule
Under the Charter of the French language, the websites, catalogues, brochures and other commercial publications of a business operating in Quebec must be available in French. A version in another language is allowed, as long as a French version of comparable quality exists and is just as accessible.
Bill 96 did not create the French website requirement: it already existed. It did tighten the rules, raise fines and lead to more complaints.
The checklist
- The site opens in French for Quebec visitors, or the language choice is clear and easy.
- All commercial content exists in French: pages, product descriptions, prices, terms, forms.
- The French version is complete and of the same quality as the English one, not a partial machine translation.
- Error messages, automatic emails and invoices are in French too.
- Buttons and menus are translated, not only the body text.
The fines
Since June 2022, a business in breach faces a fine of $3,000 to $30,000, doubled for a repeat offence and tripled for further ones. The Office québécois de la langue française (OQLF) often acts after a consumer complaint.
What about signs?
For outdoor signs, a newer rule applies since June 1, 2025: when a trademark in another language is displayed, French must take up at least twice as much space. That is a separate rule from the website requirement.
How we work
Every STELLAIRE website is bilingual from day one: English and French, with a properly written French version and SEO done in both languages. We can also add Persian or other languages.
This article is general information, not legal advice. For your specific situation, consult a qualified professional.
Frequently asked questions
Can my site be English only if my customers are English speakers?
If you offer goods or services to consumers in Quebec, the site must be available in French. An English version can be added, as long as the French one is of comparable quality and just as accessible.
What is the fine if my website is not in French?
Since June 2022, $3,000 to $30,000 for a business, doubled for a first repeat offence and tripled after that.
Is machine translation enough?
It is risky. The law asks for a French version of comparable quality; an incomplete or poor machine translation may not meet that bar and hurts your image.
Planning a website?
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